Author: user user

’How Yahoo boys killed romance in Nigeria,’- Erigga

Nigerian rapper Erhiga Agarivbie, popularly known as Erigga has claimed that fraudsters, also known as Yahoo Boys are responsible for the decline in romance in the country.

While speaking during an interview with Yanga FM, Erigga explained that these internet fraudsters spend extravagantly on women. He added that this in turn has made it difficult for other men to please women financially.

Erigga explained that a lot of men now base their value entirely on their finances and women now date for survival.

‘Yahoo boys don kill romance. Romance no longer exists. When last did you see two lovers holding hands together in the street? It has been long we saw such. The problem now, is that we are raising weak men who feel their entire value is in their pockets,’ he expressed.

The rapper added that romance used to be affordable back in the day, stating that both men and women are to be blamed for the new standards.

‘Nowadays, relationship is expensive. It used to be meat pie. very affordable back then. And the women were very appreciative. But men also share in the blame, weak men are the ones who set the standards -women took and raised the bars,’ he added.

Children’s Booker Prize to be announced today

The Booker Prizes is set to announce The Children’s Booker Prize today, 24, October, 2025. The prize, supported by AKO Foundation, is a major one for children’s literature. And it will celebrate the best contemporary fiction for children aged eight to 12 years old, written in or translated into English and published in the UK and/or Ireland.

The inaugural £50,000 award will open for submissions in spring 2026, with the shortlist of eight books revealed next November. The winner will be announced in February 2027,

A unique feature of the prize is that children will be part of those that will decide the eventual winner as it (the winner) will be selected by a combined panel of child and adult judges, chaired by the UK’s Children’s Laureate, Frank Cottrell-Boyce.

At least 30,000 copies of the shortlisted and winning books will be gifted to ensure more children can own and read the world’s best fiction.

Another interesting feature of the prize is that three child judges will be recruited – with the support of schools and a range of partners across the culture and entertainment industries – to join the adults in choosing the winning book.

The process will give children a direct voice in the outcome, ensuring the winning book is recommended by young readers to their peers. The aim is to engage and grow a new generation of readers by recognising and championing the best children’s fiction from writers around the world.

Gaby Wood, Chief Executive of the Booker Prize Foundation, said: ‘The Children’s Booker Prize is the most ambitious endeavour we’ve embarked on in 20 years – and we hope its impact will resonate for decades to come.

‘It aims to be several things at once: an award that will champion future classics written for children; a social intervention designed to inspire more young people to read; and a seed from which we hope future generations of lifelong readers will grow.

‘In other words, the Children’s Booker Prize is not just a prize – it’s part of a movement: a cause that children, parents, carers, teachers and everyone in the world of storytelling can get behind.

‘We’re delighted that Frank Cottrell-Boyce, master storyteller and passionate advocate, will be the inaugural Chair of the judges. And we can’t wait to hear the views of the ultimate judges of the quality of children’s fiction: children themselves.’

Frank Cottrell-Boyce, multi-award-winning children’s book author, screenwriter and Chair of judges said: ‘Every child deserves the chance to experience the happiness that diving into a great book can bring. The Children’s Booker Prize will make it easier for children to find the book that speaks to them.

‘By inviting them to the judging table, and by gifting copies of the nominated books, it will bring thousands more children into the wonderful world of reading. I am absolutely buzzing about the news that I’m going to be chairing the judging panel. It’s going to be – as they say – absolute scenes in there. Let the yelling commence.’

Frank Cottrell-Boyce, multi-award-winning children’s book author, screenwriter and Chair of judges said: ‘Every child deserves the chance to experience the happiness that diving into a great book can bring. The Children’s Booker Prize will make it easier for children to find the book that speaks to them.

‘By inviting them to the judging table, and by gifting copies of the nominated books, it will bring thousands more children into the wonderful world of reading. I am absolutely buzzing about the news that I’m going to be chairing the judging panel. It’s going to be – as they say – absolute scenes in there. Let the yelling commence.’

When did privilege become a deal breaker in relationships?

‘Would you date a nepo baby?’ What started as a tricky TikTok trend has now morphed into a wider public discourse. Nepotism-once harmless, entertaining celebrity buzz-is currently shifting as an avenue to unpack family background, generational privilege, and inequality.

Nepo baby isn’t just a political term-it refers to a child of a famous celebrity, personality, or professional, gaining popularity and success through familial ties.

Nowadays, it has sparked public discourse: Opening discussions about privilege, lifestyle, and deal breakers in relationships. Non-negotiable deal breakers

Deal breakers are crucial to note in relationships, especially in the getting-to-know phase. It defines the non-negotiables, warning signs, and ‘red flags’ that don’t align with your preferences and values. And it helps you decide whether to pursue or dodge the connection altogether.

Whether or not you are in a relationship with a nepo baby, these are the deal-breaking personalities you might want to watch out for.

1. Entitlement

Entitlement is a silent killer in relationships, especially if your potential lover is tied to privilege. Someone who is used to receiving VIP treatment because of their family background might carry these expectations into their relationships, which might strain the bond.

If they believe they deserve everything without earning it due to their privilege, it creates an unhealthy imbalance. It creates unrealistic expectations and one-sidedness, where one expects more than the other. This dismisses the idea of give and take, which is essential for mutual respect and valuing each other.

Whether it stems from wealth or upbringing, unchecked entitlement results in a lack of empathy and selfishness. Having an entitlement mentality in relationships without self-awareness of what is ‘too much’ could be a deal breaker.

2. Lack of accountability

Accountability serves as the backbone of healthy relationships-a form of maturity and willingness to recognize mistakes and make improvements. One glaring sign is refusing to confront their responsibility for their actions or becoming evasive about their behavior. Instead of owning up to their mistakes, they might rather resort to saying things like: ‘Accept me for who I am.’ This lack of accountability and denial could strain the relationship, especially if you’re someone who upholds growth and self-awareness.

Setting clear boundaries is important if the potential partner refuses to acknowledge their mindset and privileges, as it can lead to conflict in the relationship. If they become defensive or dismissive, it’s a definite cue of incompatibility. After all, the foundation of healthy relationships thrives on honesty, compassion, and courage to confront harsh truths about their identity.

If the signs are already right in front of you, maybe it’s time to detach and walk away.

3. Out of touch

Someone raised with a silver spoon may be used to luxury and financial freedom, which is far from the realities faced by most Filipinos. And while some are in touch with Filipinos’ lived struggles, others remain disconnected from the conditions that many endure.

Being out of touch with reality is a subtle form of avoiding harsh realities, dodging conversations on social issues, showing a lack of empathy for others, and displaying a general intolerance for things that they believe ‘don’t concern them.’ If both parties don’t share the same values, whether in politics, long-term planning, or life goals, it will erode emotional connection and could lead to heated conversations in the long run.

Nowadays, awareness is essential. People may hold different beliefs and principles, but having social consciousness is a sign of maturity and respecting lived experiences outside your own bubble.

Healthy relationships don’t simply thrive with chemistry alone; they need empathy and awareness to have more depth.

What matters the most

Love holds great power in any relationship, but this should never silence your values and principles in life. Standing by your beliefs, despite emotional ties, is an act of self-respect-one thing you should always uphold. Prioritizing accountability over blind devotion speaks volumes as it signifies maturity and awareness.

Every choice you make paints your character and integrity that you’ll carry over time and will last a lifetime. At the end of the day, your name is your greatest legacy. Hence, binding yourself to someone with a stained reputation or toxic personality will corrupt you in no time by impeding your growth and adversely affecting your overall success in life.

Dating a nepo baby is not intrinsically bad. Their title alone doesn’t automatically signal a red flag. Not all ‘nepo babies’ are problematic-some have proved themselves through hard work, acknowledged their privileges, and uphold integrity. Things only get messy when they get blinded by their privilege and entitlement, especially if it comes from the public resources meant for communal growth.

Relationships shouldn’t burden you with unwanted baggage or risk your reputation. What truly matters is prioritizing your morals over anything else.

Everything is political, and love is no exception.

Woman, sister arrested for N446m property fraud in Benin City

A 58-year-old woman identified as Rita Izehia Iyoha has been arrested for allegedly defrauding one Frank Obruche Esemudje and his wife of N446 million under the pretence of selling a property, located in Effurun, Warri, Delta State to them.

Iyoha, according to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, defrauded the couple in collaboration with her sister, Fidelia Oghenetejiri.

Dele Oyewale, the spokesperson for the anti-graft agency said in a statement on Friday that Iyoha is set to be arraigned for property fraud.

According to the anti-agency, Iyoha, the principal suspect, and Oghenetejiri were arrested based on petition by Esemudje that they presented themselves as the rightful owners of the property they wanted to sell to him which they claimed was an inheritance from their father.

But the petitioner said upon payment, he could not take possession of the property as there was a subsisting court judgment restraining the sisters from disposing of the property.

Efforts by the petitioner to get his money back proved abortive as Iyoha immediately relocated to Ghana after the transaction.

Despite her relocation, the EFCC kept track of her and consequently arrested her upon her visit to Nigeria at a popular motor park in Lagos.

She has made useful statements and will be arraigned in court soon.

Oghenetejiri on the other hand is facing prosecution before Justice Hyeladzira Nganjiwa of the Federal High Court sitting in Warri, Delta State on a three-count charge that borders on advance fee fraud and obtaining by false pretence.

One of the charge reads: ‘That you Fidelia Oghenetega Jemu on about the 22nd of May 2025 in Warri, Delta State, within the jurisdiction of this honourable court by false pretence and with intent to defraud did obtain the sum of N50 million via your First Bank account number 3217460863 from Frank Obruche Esemudje under the pretence that the money was for the purchase of a property, situated at No 54 Airport Road, Effurum and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 1(1) (a) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act 2006and punishable under Section 1 (3) of the same Act

She pleaded ‘not guilty’ to the charge and was remanded in a Correctional Centre.

Akwa Ibom school proprietor arrested for alleged visa, scholarship fraud

A school proprietor identified as Mrs. Imaobong Cyril Okpong has been arrested for her alleged involvement in a series of visa fraud and fake offers of foreign scholarships schemes for nonexistent studies abroad.

The suspect who is the alleged proprietor of Michael Udonquak Schools , Mbierebe in Akwa Ibom State was arrested by operatives of the Uyo Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

She was arrested after one Dr. (Mrs.) Blessing Nse Bassey, a clinician, petitioned the EFCC about her activities, Dele Oyewale, spokesperson for the anti-graft agency said in a statement on Friday.

According to the statement, Bassey alleged that the suspect defrauded her of the sum of ?3 million under the guise of securing a University admission for her and also processing Canadian visas for her and her husband.

According to Bassey, the suspect contacted her sometime in February 2024 with a supposed opportunity to secure a scholarship and study visa abroad.

She explained that she didn’t make any payment until the suspect signed an indemnity agreement, which she notarized before making the ?3,000,000 electronic transfer into the suspect’s First Bank account

However, after receiving the payment, Okpong allegedly became unreachable and started rejecting calls on her mobile lines as she completely failed to deliver on her promise and terms of the signed agreement.

Bassey claimed that the suspect had defrauded many victims, especially one of her friends who got stranded in China after Opong gave her fake scholarship.

‘I met in China who got stranded in China when she got there and realized that there was no scholarship. Some of her victims had travelled abroad with fake documents that left many of them stranded overseas while some others faced deportation with huge financial losses’

EFCC said the suspect will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.

Caution needed on eVisa program

Have we not learned anything from the Alice Guo caper?

The former Bamban, Tarlac mayor and probable Chinese spy was found to have faked Filipino citizenship to be able to run for office, and ended up building a Philippine offshore gaming operators (Pogo) empire that was later found to be behind a host of criminal activities.

Guo’s case opened a can of worms in the Pogo industry, with civil registrars found to be selling Philippine documents to illegal Chinese workers and nationals so they could avail themselves of the rights and privileges reserved for Filipino citizens. The Bureau of Immigration (BI) was also found to have facilitated the entry of illegal aliens who wound up working or running Pogo hubs where, labor statistics showed, 82.3 percent of 118,239 workers in 2024 were Chinese nationals.

After several raids indicated that most Pogo hubs were engaged in trafficking, kidnapping, unlawful detention, and the torture of workers forced to perform scam operations, President Marcos last year issued a blanket ban on the industry followed by the mass deportation of its workers. But barely has this ban been fully implemented-with illegal Chinese nationals arrested recently-when the government all but preempted it with an electronic visa (eVisa) program for Chinese nationals.

Upcoming chairmanship

The Philippine embassy in Beijing this week said that the eVisa policy for Chinese nationals will be rolled out in November in an effort to lure more tourists and traders into the country. The resumption of the program comes almost two years after the Department of Foreign Affairs temporarily suspended applications in China in November 2023 after the Justice Department called for stricter visa regulations to curb the influx of illegal online gaming workers to the country.

An eVisa will allow ‘more convenient’ online applications for Chinese applicants who intend to visit the Philippines for only 14 days for tourism or business purposes.

The move, seen as part of the country’s efforts to improve bilateral ties with China because of Manila’s upcoming chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, should also entice more tourists from China, Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said. DOT data showed that China has consistently ranked among the Philippines’ top five sources of foreign visitors, with 675,663 arrivals in 2016 peaking at 1.7 million in 2019.

But the DOT has noted a 22.06 percent decline in arrivals from China: only 300,000 Chinese tourists in 2024, and 203,923 as of September this year.

Record of bad faith

For sure, the expected boost in tourism revenue because of the eVisa is welcome, but caution should be the operative word, given the record of bad faith among our visitors from China who have conveniently flouted immigration and labor laws, no thanks to complicit Philippine government personnel. Recall the pastillas scam-with grease money rolled like milk candy-and how Chinese tourists seamlessly morphed into illegal workers, most of whom were absorbed into scam operations in Pogo hubs.

Obtaining fake Filipino citizenship comes next, with the latest case involving mining executive Joseph Sy, whose citizenship records are being reviewed by immigration amid allegations that he misrepresented himself as a Filipino.

Almost a year after they should have left the country in the wake of the Pogo ban, more illegal Chinese nationals and fake Filipinos are being arrested by immigration authorities, the latest in Butuan City on Oct. 9. With their ample resources, how easy it is for them to blend in and evade the law!

China’s duplicity

The continuing aggression of Chinese warships and coast guard vessels is also another issue to consider before implementing the lenient eVisa program. With military installations and entire islands built by China on Philippine features despite an arbitral ruling confirming our country’s sovereignty over them, how confident are we that the provisions of the new visa policy will be respected as such, and not abused for military espionage and surveillance purposes?

Such a long record of China’s duplicity should lead government agencies to first strengthen the weak joints in its structures and processes that unscrupulous personnel have misused to connive with illegal aliens. With the indictment of Philippine Statistics Authority’s former personnel for the alleged issuance of fake documents to Chinese nationals from 2016 to 2023, more stringent measures are supposedly put in place, requiring personal appearance in some cases to prevent misrepresentation.

Is the BI as vigilant and proactive, being gatekeepers that should be our first line of defense against undesirable outsiders?

While it may be ideal to operate on the basis of good faith, let us acknowledge how previous missteps have resulted in catastrophe, and be on guard accordingly. We all know where good intentions can sometimes lead.

Fola opens up on struggle with fame

Nigerian singer and song-writer Folarin Odunlami, also known as Fola, has spoken up on his recent struggles with fame and recognition.

While speaking with Spotify’s Radar, Fola revealed that while in school, his classmates barely knew him. He added that a lot of things has changed since he gained prominence and now he can’t casually go to school because of fame.

‘Music matters so much to me because it is such an amazing thing that you can speak to and touch someone without even meeting them in person. 2022, I can’t forget. I put all my money on a music project but I didn’t blow. Before, if I went to the campus, people didn’t even recognise my presence. But just one year down the line, I can’t even enter school anymore because of fame,’ he expressed.

All you need to know about Tinubu’s new Service Chiefs

President Bola Tinubu has on Friday appointed new Service Chiefs to spearhead Nigeria’s Armed Forces, marking a decisive step in strengthening the nation’s defence architecture.

The appointments bring seasoned officers-Maj.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, Rear Adm. Idi Abbas, AVM Sunday Aneke, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, and Major General Emmanuel Akomaye Parker Undiandeye, whose leadership is expected to enhance security operations nationwide.

Below are profiles of the new Service Chiefs.

1. Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede: The Chief of Defence Staff

Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, born in 1968 in Ekiti State, is a seasoned military officer whose career spans over three decades of distinguished service. A member of the 39th Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in 1992, with service dating back to 1987.

Oluyede’s career reflects an exceptional blend of combat command and strategic leadership. He has served as Platoon Commander and Adjutant in 65 Battalion, Company Commander at 177 Guards Battalion, and Staff Officer in the Guards Brigade. He also commanded the 27 Task Force Brigade under Operation HADIN KAI in the North-East and served as Commandant of the Amphibious Training School.

His international experience includes participation in peacekeeping operations with ECOMOG in Liberia and Operation HARMONY IV in the Bakassi Peninsula.

Promoted to Major General in September 2020, Oluyede became Acting Chief of Army Staff in October 2024 following health issues affecting his predecessor, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja. His confirmation as the 24th COAS marked a pivotal moment for the Army, symbolising continuity and generational leadership.

At 56, General Oluyede embodies a balance of experience and modern outlook, positioning him to manage Nigeria’s evolving security landscape. His leadership is recognised for its discipline, pragmatism, and commitment to professionalism.

He has been honoured with several awards, including the Corps Medal of Honour, Grand Service Star, Field Command Medal of Honour, and the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Award.

Married with three children, Lt.-Gen. Oluyede is respected for his calm, disciplined, and visionary leadership – a quality that now defines his stewardship as Chief of Defence Staff.

2. Maj.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu: The New Chief of Army Staff

Maj.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu’s appointment as the 25th Chief of Army Staff (COAS) by President Bola Tinubu heralds a new era in the Nigerian Army-one defined by modernisation, professionalism, and a renewed commitment to defending national sovereignty. He succeeds Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, who now serves as Chief of Defence Staff (CDS).

Born on December 18, 1971, in Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State, Shaibu joined the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in 1989 as part of the 41 Regular Course and was commissioned into the Armoured Corps in 1994.

He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the NDA and several postgraduate qualifications from institutions in Africa, Europe, and the United States. These include a Postgraduate Certificate in Public Administration from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration, and three Master’s degrees in Public Administration (University of Calabar), Strategic Studies (University of Ibadan), and Security and Strategic Studies (National Defence University, Washington D.C.).

A Harvard Kennedy School alumnus, Shaibu has undergone advanced training at the National Defence College, Abuja, and the National Productivity Centre’s Senior Executive Programme in Applied Leadership and Strategy.

His distinguished military career includes key roles such as General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7 Division, Commander of Sector 1, Operation HADIN KAI in Maiduguri, Chief of Training at Army Headquarters, and Director of Coordination at the National Defence College. He also served as a Military Observer with the African Mission in Sudan and participated in peacekeeping operations in Liberia.

Shaibu’s operational record covers major national security missions including Operations HARMONY, LAFIYA DOLE, and HADIN KAI. For his valour and service, he has received several honours, including the Forces Service Star (FSS), Meritorious Service Star (MSS), Distinguished Service Star (DSS), and the Purple Heart Medal.

Married to Hajia Safiyyah Hassan and blessed with two children, Maj.-Gen. Shaibu is expected to bring renewed energy to the Army, focusing on joint operations, intelligence-driven warfare, and innovation in military technology.

3. Rear Adm. Idi Abbas: The New Chief of Naval Staff

Rear Admiral Idi Abbas, newly appointed Chief of Naval Staff, brings over three decades of naval expertise to the Nigerian Navy’s leadership.

Born on September 20, 1969, in Nassarawa Local Government Area of Kano State, Abbas began his education at Air Force Military School, Jos, before enrolling in the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in 1987 as part of the 40 Regular Course. He was commissioned as a Sub-Lieutenant in 1993 with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry.

A specialist in Above Water Warfare, Abbas has completed numerous local and international courses, including the Senior Staff Course at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, and the UN Military Observer Course in Tanzania. He is also a graduate of the National Defence College, Abuja.

His career has seen him occupy critical positions such as Commanding Officer, Burma Battalion (NDA); Commander, Task Group Operation TSARE TEKU; Chief of Naval Safety and Standards; and Flag Officer Commanding, Central Naval Command. He also served as Chief of Defence Civil-Military Relations at Defence Headquarters.

A Fellow of the Defence College (fdc) and member of both the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM) and the International Institute of Professional Security (IIPS), Abbas has earned several honours, including the Forces Service Star (FSS), Meritorious Service Star (MSS), Distinguished Service Star (DSS), and the Grand Service Star (GSS).

Known for his calm yet strategic leadership, Rear Adm. Abbas is expected to focus on enhancing maritime security, safeguarding Nigeria’s waterways, and curbing piracy and illegal oil activities.

Outside duty, he enjoys hockey and driving. He is married to Mrs Aisha Abbas, and they have two sons.

4. Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke: The New Chief of Air Staff

President Bola Tinubu’s appointment of Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Sunday Kelvin Aneke as Chief of Air Staff signals a new phase in the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) evolution, one rooted in reform, strategic vision, and air power modernisation.

Born on February 20, 1972, in Makurdi, Benue State, Aneke hails from Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State.

He attended Army Children School, Kaduna, and Government College, Kaduna, before joining the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1988 as part of the 40 Regular Course. He graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Physics and was commissioned as a Pilot Officer in September 1993.

Aneke’s academic and professional credentials are extensive. He holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Management (University of Calabar), a Master’s in International Affairs and Diplomacy (Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria), another in Political Economy and Development Studies (University of Abuja), and a Master’s in Strategic Studies from the United States Air War College, Maxwell Air Force Base.

He has attended several professional military courses, including the Junior and Senior Staff Courses at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, and has undergone specialised training in aeromechanical engineering, defence resource management, and air mobility operations.

AVM Aneke has held key command and staff positions, including General Officer Commanding 7 Division, Maiduguri; Commanding Officer, Base Services Wing, Air Maritime Group, Benin; Director of Policy at NAF Headquarters; Chief of Training and Operations, NAF Headquarters; and Air Officer Commanding, Mobility Command, Yenagoa. He has also served with the UN Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the African Union Mission in Sudan.

An experienced pilot, he has accumulated over 4,359 flying hours across several aircraft types, including Air Beetle 18, Dornier 228, Citation 500, Falcon 900, Gulfstream V/550, and Hawker 4000. His service decorations include the FSS, MSS, DSS, GSS, and the Defence General Staff Medal (DGSM).

AVM Aneke is married to Mrs Ngozi Enderline Aneke, and they have three sons-Chukwuebuka Kelvin, Ifeanyichukwu Brian, and Uchechukwu Jason. He enjoys flying, music, and movies.

Known for his calm demeanour and reform-driven leadership, Aneke’s tenure is expected to focus on enhancing air mobility, intelligence-led operations, modernising the NAF fleet, and driving innovation in air power strategy.

5. Major General Emmanuel Akomaye Parker Undiandeye: Chief of Defence Intelligence

Major General Emmanuel Akomaye Parker Undiandeye, a seasoned intelligence officer and scholar-soldier, was born on 2nd September 1968 in Bedia, Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State, to the family of Mr. Sylvanus and Mrs. Maria Undiandeye.

He began his military career at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna, before proceeding to the prestigious Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, United Kingdom, where he completed his cadet training. Over the years, he has undertaken several advanced military and academic courses, including at the Nigerian Army College of Logistics, Lagos, and the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, for both Junior and Senior Courses.

Maj. Gen. Undiandeye also attended the National Defence University, Washington D.C., USA, and the National Defence College, Abuja, where he earned a Master’s Degree from the University of Ibadan. His quest for knowledge further took him to the Harvard Kennedy School of Executive Administration, USA, for the Senior Executives National and International Security Programme, and the International Intelligence Directors Course in Chicksands, UK.

He holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in History and a Master of Arts in Strategic Security Studies. He is an International Counter-Terrorism Fellow (ICTF) of the National Defence University’s College of International Security Affairs (CISA), Washington D.C., USA.

Throughout his illustrious career, Maj. Gen. Undiandeye has held numerous command, staff, and instructional positions, contributing immensely to national and global security. Notably, he served as Chief of Staff at the Headquarters Nigerian Army Intelligence Corps, where he oversaw operational intelligence gathering and dissemination. He was also Director of Lessons Learnt at the Army Headquarters Department of Transformation and Innovation, and Director of Foreign Liaison at the Defence Intelligence Agency.

Other key appointments include Senior Research Fellow at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Director of Psychological Warfare at Defence Headquarters, and Deputy Commandant at the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre. Until his recent appointment, he was Commandant of the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre, Jaji.

Internationally, Maj. Gen. Undiandeye distinguished himself as Deputy Chief Operations Officer with the United Nations Mission in Liberia, Deputy Chief of Assessments at UN Headquarters in New York, and as a pioneer seconded staff to the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA), where he played a crucial role in averting conflict between South Sudan and the Republic of Sudan.

He assumed command as the 17th Chief of Defence Intelligence on 23rd June 2023.

Maj. Gen. Undiandeye’s medals and decorations include the Grand Service Star (GSS), Defence Meritorious Star (DMS), Defence Administration Medal (DAM), Field Command Medal (FCM), Training Support Medal (TSM), and the United Nations Headquarters Medal (2013). He is a Fellow of several professional and strategic institutions, including the National Defence College (fdc), Nigeria; the National Defense University, Washington D.C. (fndu); the Chartered Institute of Administration (FCAI); the International Institute of Professional Security (FIIPS); and the Nigerian Army Resource Centre (FNARC).

A dedicated family man, he is married to Mrs. Jane Ekor Undiandeye, and their union is blessed with three children. His hobbies include reading, golf, photography, and nature watching.

ASUS Philippines introduces ExpertBook PM3, ExpertCenter P500SV and ExpertCenter P400 AiO

ASUS Philippines today announced the launch of three new additions to its ASUS Business product lineup, unveiling the brand-new ExpertBook PM3 Series laptops, ExpertCenter P500SV desktop and the ExpertCenter P400 AiO (all-in-one desktop) series. These devices usher in a new era for professionals, enterprises, and government sectors, delivering AI-powered performance, enterprise-grade security, and adaptable design tailored for modern workplaces of all sizes.

At the launch event, ASUS Philippines emphasized its commitment to durability and reliability with the introduction of the new P Series, specifically designed to meet the evolving needs of modern businesses. The ASUS P Series featuring the ExpertBook PM3, ExpertCenter P500SV and ExpertCenter P400 AiO are engineered for exceptional resilience, having undergone rigorous durability testing to ensure reliability before reaching customers. Beyond industry standard quality checks, these devices were subjected to the ASUS Superior Durability Tests, a suite of up to 157 stringent procedures that mimic the daily rigors of business use. From hinge endurance and panel pressure to I/O port wear and accidental drops, every component was engineered to withstand years of professional use. ASUS sets a higher benchmark standard for reliability by combining its rigorous in-house durability tests with the industry-leading Military Grade MIL-STD-810H certification-exceeding standard industry requirements to deliver a truly toughest quality and worry-free business reliability.

Also at the launch event, ASUS brought these claims to life through compelling live demonstrations of the Panel Pressure Test, Port Durability Test, Drop Test, Hinge Durability Test, Keyboard Spill-resistant Test and Rump Pressure Test. All guests had the opportunity to participate in the durability tests themselves, allowing them to experience the challenges firsthand and see the reliability of ASUS ExpertSeries in action. Each demonstration highlighted the practical toughness of the P Series, proving that these devices are built to withstand the unexpected, whether it’s frequent travel, everyday wear and tear, or accidents at work.

With toughness embedded into every design detail, the ExpertBook PM3, the ExpertCenter P500SV and the ExpertCenter P400 AiO empower businesses to operate without limits, offering the confidence that their devices are as reliable as the professionals who rely on them.

Built on the philosophy ‘Trusted by IT Experts, Built for Worry-Free Business,’ the ASUS Expert Series focuses on key elements such as enterprise-grade durability, AI integration for productivity, comprehensive security solutions, and flexible after-sales policies tailored for organizational customers.

With ASUS Expert Series, Durability is a Guarantee

IT devices in the Philippines often face unique challenges: a tropical monsoon climate with high temperatures and humidity year-round, fine dust in the air, usage habits involving coffee shops, construction sites, outdoor transaction points, and frequent public commute. These factors can quickly degrade devices if they are not properly designed.

With the ASUS Expert Series, durability has been elevated to a core standard. All devices are certified to meet the stringent U.S. military standard MIL-STD-810H, which includes tests for vibration, thermal shock, dust, high humidity, and impact resistance.

The ExpertCenter P500SV and ExpertBook PM3 went even further, passing up to 28 punishing procedures under the US military-grade MIL-STD-810H standard. These tests simulated some of the harshest conditions imaginable. From rapid temperature shock cycles ranging from a bone-chilling -51°C to a scorching 71°C, to resistance against vibration, physical shocks, sand, dust, high-altitude environments, humidity, and freeze/thaw cycles. They were even subjected to simulated explosive atmospheres, showcasing a level of resilience that goes far beyond typical workplace expectations. Together, these rigorous tests affirm that the ASUS P Series is not just built for performance, it stands for trust, endurance, and readiness to thrive in any environment.

Notably, many of these tests closely mirror real-world usage conditions in the Philippines, such as dust resistance in urban settings, reliable performance in humidity levels reaching up to 95%, and thermal shock protection for devices frequently transitioning between air-conditioned environments and hot outdoor spaces. These seemingly minor factors can accelerate component wear if not addressed from the design stage.

In addition, ASUS applies a durability testing process that includes 157 real-world simulation procedures tailored to workplace environments. In reality, many incidents in office settings are unforeseen and cannot be entirely prevented through protocols or user training. That’s why ASUS proactively designs its devices to enhance passive protection against such risks.

A prime example is the spill-resistant keyboard, capable of withstanding up to 405ml of liquid, helping minimize damage from accidental spills. The display is reinforced to endure pressure from small objects like pens or USB drives when the laptop is closed, while the hinge, I/O ports, and entire chassis are tested at twice the frequency of standard consumer laptops.

‘Durability and reliability have always been top priorities in ASUS’s development philosophy. This ensures that businesses can trust their devices not only to operate reliably over time, but also to reflect a customer-centric approach-delivering IT solutions tailored to the real-world needs of each organization,’ shared Mr. Rex Lee, Vice President of ASUS Global.

With ASUS ExpertSeries, Increased Productivity is ensured

According to market research firm Gartner, AI-enabled PCs are expected to account for 55% of global PC shipments by 2026, marking a significant shift in the industry.

The ASUS ExpertSeries is equipped with practical AI technologies, with a key highlight being ASUS AI ExpertMeet-a smart collaboration toolkit that can record meeting content, generate concise summaries, display real-time subtitles, provide bilingual translation, and even insert watermarks when users share their screens. All processing is done locally on the device, ensuring fast response times and absolute data security.

Several ASUS Expert Series models are also equipped with the latest chipsets featuring integrated NPUs (Neural Processing Units)-dedicated AI processors designed to meet Microsoft’s Copilot+ PC standards. This enables the devices to run deeply integrated AI features in Windows

ExpertBook PM3 Series: AI-Powered Productivity on the Go

The ASUS ExpertBook PM3 Series, available in 14-inch (PM3406) and 16-inch (PM3606) models, is built for the future of work. Powered by up to AMD Ryzen AI 7 processors, the PM3 delivers seamless multitasking and advanced AI-driven features with up to 66 TOPS of AI performance. Lightweight starting from just 1.48kg, it offers portability without compromising durability, meeting MIL-STD-810H military standards.

Equipped with up to a 16-inch, WUXGA anti-glare display with up to an 88% screen-to-body ratio, the ExpertBook PM3 provides clear and sharp visuals in any environment. With dual-SSD expandability and support for upgradable DDR5 memory, it ensures businesses can scale storage and performance as needed.

The PM3 also introduces ASUS AI ExpertMeet, enabling effortless collaboration across teams and borders. Security is reinforced with ASUS ExpertGuardian, combining NIST SP 800-155-compliant BIOS, TPM 2.0 encryption, and Windows 11 Secured-Core certification.

ExpertCenter P500SV: Quiet Power for Professional Workplaces

The compact 8.6L ExpertCenter P500SV redefines what Filipino businesses can expect from professional desktops. Powered by up to an Intel® Core i7 processor with an optional discrete GPU, and supporting up to 64GB DDR5 memory, the P500SV delivers powerful performance for both everyday office tasks and demanding workloads.

The system features advanced copper heat-pipe cooling technology, enabling performance at just 30.8 dB in Performance Mode-quieter than rustling leaves. This whisper-quiet operation, combined with energy-efficient intelligent fan control and an 80 PLUS certified PSU, makes it ideal for offices, classrooms, and meeting rooms.

ASUS AI ExpertMeet also powers the P500SV, transforming virtual collaboration with real-time translation, automated meeting summaries, and noise reduction for crystal-clear communication. Security is further strengthened with ASUS ExpertGuardian protections, including NIST SP 800-155-compliant BIOS, TPM 2.0 hardware security, MIL-STD-810H military-grade durability, and up to five years of BIOS and driver updates for IT stability.

Compact yet expandable, the P500SV provides comprehensive connectivity with front USB-C and USB-A ports, HDMI, DisplayPort, RJ45, and PCIe/M.2 slots for future upgrades. The chassis is designed for easy maintenance and space-saving installation, making it a flexible choice for Filipino Small and Medium Business (SMB).

ExpertCenter P400 AiO: Versatility, productivity, and security for expanding businesses

ASUS ExpertCenter P400 AiO ) is a versatile all-in-one PC that combines performance and style in a compact design that integrates effortlessly into modern workspaces. With options of 23.8-inch or 27-inch FHD displays, a high screen-to-body ratio and immersive Dolby Atmos audio, ExpertCenter P400 AiO provides a premium experience for video calls and multimedia tasks.

The series combines sleek design and powerful performance, featuring the brand’s slimmest profile yet with a slim-bezel display, optional VESA mount, and a height-adjustable stand. It’s built for productivity with up to an Intel® Core i7 processor, 64GB DDR5 memory, and Wi-Fi 7 for smooth multitasking. Enhancing virtual collaboration, ASUS AI ExpertMeet offers intelligent tools for smarter video conferencing, while ASUS ExpertGuardian ensures robust security with NIST SP 800-155 compliance, Windows 11 Secured-core PC technology, and a complimentary one-year McAfee+ Premium subscription.

With the launch of the ASUS ExpertBook PM3 Series, ExpertCenter P500SV, and ExpertCenter P400 AiO, ASUS strengthens its commitment to powering the future of businesses in the Philippines. By uniting enterprise-grade security, and proven durability, these solutions give businesses the confidence to embrace innovation without compromise. Trusted by IT experts and built for worry-free business, ASUS continues to enable organizations to succeed in a constantly evolving digital age.

Chris Brown appears in court over alleged nightclub assault

American R and B star Chris Brown made a surprise appearance at Southwark Crown Court in London on Friday for a hearing related to an alleged nightclub assault.

The 36-year-old singer is accused of attacking music producer Abraham Diaw with a bottle during a fight at Tape nightclub in Mayfair on February 19, 2023.

Brown, who earlier pleaded not guilty to charges of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm and assault causing actual bodily harm, appeared alongside his co-defendant, Dallas rapper and producer Omololu Akinlolu, 38. Both men deny the allegations.

Although not required to attend, Brown appeared in court and spoke briefly to confirm his name. His trial is scheduled to begin in October 2026.

Prosecutors allege that Brown carried out an ‘unprovoked attack,’ striking Mr Diaw several times with a bottle before continuing to punch and kick him as he fell to the ground. CCTV footage reportedly captured the incident.

Brown was arrested in Manchester on May 15 after arriving in the UK for the first time since the incident. He was later released from HMP Forest Bank on May 21 after posting £5 million bail, which allowed him to continue his ‘Breezy Bowl XX’ tour.